West Hampstead Primary School Review 2026: A Historic School at the Heart of Camden's Community

West Hampstead Primary School occupies a beautiful Grade II-listed Victorian three-storey building on Dornfell Street in West Hampstead, Camden. Originally opened in 1886 as Broomsleigh Street School and renamed Beckford Primary in 1929, the school took its current name in September 2021 following a community vote to move away from its historical connection to the slave trade. This state primary school serves 446 pupils aged 3 to 11 with nursery provision, operating under the motto "Together, We Achieve". The school's latest Ofsted inspection rated it Good, commending leaders for designing an ambitious curriculum for all pupils. With 74% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths—well above the national average of 62%—and a catchment that extends to approximately 1.75 miles, West Hampstead Primary is an inclusive and aspirational school welcoming families from a wide diversity of backgrounds.

West Hampstead Primary School's identity is deeply rooted in its Victorian heritage and its role as a community institution for nearly 140 years. The school's transformation from Beckford Primary to West Hampstead Primary in 2021 marked an important moment of reflection, acknowledging that the original namesake, former London mayor William Beckford, derived his wealth from the slave trade. This renaming signals the school's commitment to values that better reflect modern Camden.

The commemorative mural honouring Dr Beryl Gilroy, the school's former headteacher and the first Black woman to serve as a headteacher in Camden, stands as testament to the school's progressive legacy and its commitment to representation and inclusion. Dr Gilroy paved the way for people of colour in education, and her memory continues to inspire the school community.

The school's ethos centres on five core values: Aspiration, Community, Consideration, Resilience and Responsibility. Kindness, empathy and respect are prized highly, with an expectation that everyone at West Hampstead Primary should feel a sense of belonging and develop strong positive relationships. Partnerships are central to the school's approach—within classrooms, between home and school, and with external organisations including the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM).

The atmosphere is one of active engagement. Walk around the school at any time and you will see children and adults working together, proud of their school and committed to their learning. The broad and creative curriculum is delivered within a safe and stimulating learning environment housed in the characterful listed building.

West Hampstead Primary School delivers results that place it in line with national standards, ranking 6,800th in England and 30th locally in Camden. The school's performance is stronger than many of its peers nationally, with 74% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared to the England average of 62%. In the higher standard categories, 30% of pupils achieved greater depth across all three subjects, significantly outperforming the national figure of 8%.

Subject-specific outcomes show consistent strength. In reading, 73% reached the expected standard with an average scaled score of 106, and 34% achieved the high score. Mathematics performance was particularly robust, with 76% meeting expectations, an average scaled score of 106, and 41% achieving the high score. Grammar, punctuation and spelling saw 71% at the expected standard with a scaled score of 104. Writing showed 15% achieving greater depth. Science attainment stood at 73%, though this was below the national average of 82%, suggesting a possible area for development.

The curriculum is ambitious and well-designed, with leaders focused on ensuring pupils learn well and develop secure knowledge of the world. The school prioritises high levels of competence in English and mathematics, supported by its partnership with the NCETM; notably, the school's Maths Lead serves as primary lead of the London Central and North West Maths Hub, bringing specialist expertise directly into the classroom.

West Hampstead Primary values creative and artistic experiences, ensuring children are frequently exposed to high-quality musical performances and have opportunities to work with visiting artists, poets, dancers and storytellers. This commitment to the arts enriches the curriculum and supports pupils' personal development beyond core academic subjects.

The school's inclusive approach ensures all children can flourish. While specific SEN provision details are best confirmed directly with the school, the staff team is described as enthusiastic and committed to supporting every child to achieve the highest possible standards while exploring their interests and talents to the full.

Life at West Hampstead Primary extends well beyond the classroom. The school offers a range of extracurricular opportunities including sports programmes, choir, and creativity initiatives supported by regular visits from artists, poets, dancers and storytellers. The Parent-Staff Association (PSA) plays an active role in organizing events and fundraising efforts that enhance the school environment.

The Victorian listed building provides a characterful setting for learning, and recent developments have focused on outdoor spaces. The school has designed and constructed a new Early Years playground, creating a dedicated space for younger pupils to enjoy. Looking ahead, plans are underway for a new Science Garden that will give all children opportunities to grow food and learn about sustainability.

A major capital project is currently in progress: the "Together We Run" fundraising initiative, launched collaboratively by the school and PSA, aims to raise vital funds for the much-needed redevelopment of the Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 playground, with completion targeted for summer 2026. This investment demonstrates the school's commitment to providing high-quality outdoor learning and play spaces for all age groups.

The school's location in West Hampstead places it within a vibrant, well-connected part of north London, with access to local cultural venues, parks and community resources that support enrichment and educational visits.

West Hampstead Primary School is heavily oversubscribed, facing significant competition for places. For Reception entry, the school received 141 applications for 60 available places, resulting in an oversubscription ratio of 2.35:1. Every first-preference applicant who was offered a place received one, indicating that the school prioritises its most committed families. The furthest distance offered in the most recent admissions round was approximately 1.75 miles, a relatively wide catchment for an inner-London primary school, though this distance can fluctuate year to year depending on application patterns.

Admissions to Reception are managed centrally by Camden Council. Parents should read the 'Starting School' booklet published by Camden and apply online directly to their home borough. Applications typically open on 1 September and the deadline is 11:59pm on 15 January of the year before entry. Outcomes are notified in April, and Reception intake occurs in September.

For in-year applications to years 1 to 6, or applications to Reception during the academic year, parents apply directly to the school. An in-year application form can be downloaded from the school website or collected from the school office, and should be returned with supporting documents to the school office.

Given the level of competition, families living closer to the school have a significant advantage. Camden operates a distance-based admissions system after prioritising looked-after children, previously looked-after children and those with exceptional medical or social need. Parents considering West Hampstead Primary are encouraged to contact the school to arrange a visit and join one of the parent tours, which provide valuable insight into the school's ethos and environment.

As with all Camden schools, it is essential to check Camden Council's official admissions criteria and oversubscription rules, as these can change annually. Families should also consider realistic backup options given the competitive nature of admissions in this part of London.

West Hampstead Primary School is a solidly performing state primary with a strong sense of community, a rich history and a commitment to inclusive education. Its Victorian listed building provides a distinctive and characterful setting, while its academic results place it comfortably above national averages, particularly in reading, writing and maths combined, and in the proportion of pupils achieving higher standards.

The school's renaming in 2021 and its honouring of Dr Beryl Gilroy signal a thoughtful, values-led approach that resonates with modern Camden families. The emphasis on partnerships—with parents, with specialist organisations such as the NCETM, and with arts practitioners—creates a broad, creative curriculum that balances academic rigour with personal development.

Admissions are highly competitive, with more than two applicants for every place, so proximity matters. Families within the typical catchment distance of 1.75 miles should consider it a realistic prospect, but those further afield may find it challenging. The school's inclusive ethos, strong community feel and above-average results make it an attractive choice for families seeking a nurturing, aspirational state primary in West Hampstead.

With ongoing investment in facilities, including new playgrounds and a planned Science Garden, and a stable, ambitious curriculum supported by specialist leadership in mathematics, West Hampstead Primary offers a well-rounded primary education in a historic setting. It is a school confident in its values and clear in its mission to help every child achieve their potential while developing as compassionate, resilient members of the community.

Is West Hampstead Primary School a good school?

Yes, West Hampstead Primary School is rated Good by Ofsted. The school's academic results are above national averages, with 74% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared to 62% nationally. The school is particularly strong in the proportion of pupils achieving higher standards (30% at greater depth, versus 8% nationally). Ofsted has commended leaders for designing an ambitious curriculum, and the school's inclusive, community-focused ethos is evident throughout.

How do I apply to West Hampstead Primary School?

For Reception entry, applications are managed by Camden Council. Parents should apply online through Camden's admissions portal, with applications typically opening on 1 September and closing at 11:59pm on 15 January the year before entry. Outcomes are notified in April. For in-year applications to years 1 to 6, parents apply directly to the school using an in-year application form available from the school website or office. It is advisable to arrange a school tour by contacting the school directly.

What is the catchment area for West Hampstead Primary School?

The furthest distance offered in the most recent admissions round was approximately 1.75 miles. However, this distance fluctuates year to year depending on the number and location of applicants. Camden operates a distance-based admissions system after prioritising looked-after children and those with exceptional need, so living closer to the school significantly increases your chances. Parents should consult Camden Council's annual admissions booklet for the most current information.

What are the school's values and ethos?

West Hampstead Primary's motto is "Together, We Achieve", and the school's five core values are Aspiration, Community, Consideration, Resilience and Responsibility. Kindness, empathy and respect are central, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and partnerships between pupils, families and the wider community. The school welcomes children from a wide diversity of backgrounds and aims to ensure every pupil feels a sense of belonging.

Does West Hampstead Primary School have a nursery?

Yes, West Hampstead Primary School offers nursery provision for children from age 3. The school has recently developed a new Early Years playground to enhance the learning environment for its youngest pupils.

What extracurricular activities are available?

The school offers a range of extracurricular opportunities including sports programmes, choir and creativity initiatives. Children regularly work with visiting artists, poets, dancers and storytellers, and the Parent-Staff Association organises events to support and enrich school life. The school also has plans to open a new Science Garden to provide hands-on learning about sustainability and food growing.